Why You Should Visit a Forest Cottage in Winter

28 January 2026

Winter is an unsung season for a forest cottage holiday, and whilst it may seem like you lose quite a lot of natural beauty, the season provides such a unique perspective of nature. After all, winter is traditionally associated with short days, long nights, cold temperatures, bare trees, no birds singing and a muddy underfoot to deal with. However, all of these elements and more besides make winter a particularly fascinating season to spend in the woods.

The Serenity Of A Winter Wonderland

The biggest and perhaps most contradictory reason to choose winter is that the verdant beauty of the Wyre Forest is yours to behold. You get to enjoy the deer dancing and the birds tweeting close to your accommodation without the hustle and bustle that can sometimes be a feature of summer and autumn visits.

The Crisp Joy Of A Winter Hike

If you wrap up warm and don the right hiking boots, there are few greater joys than a bracing, crisp winter walk.

With miles of forest trails to embrace, you get to see a unique side of the Wyre that few people will truly see the beauty in.

The Glow Of A Winter Sunrise

A winter sunrise has a colour and vibrancy that you never get at any other time of the year, with the crystalline nature of the icy sky making the colours pop in a way you do not get in the warmer months.

There are few better reasons to get up early for a hike or walk up until sunset. Once the sun sets, you also get the beauty of a starlit sky.

Embracing History Without Hustle And Bustle

There are many beautiful sights to see in the Wyre, but visiting in summer means that you do not get a chance to enjoy them with the amount of time and intimacy that such a historic sight deserves.

Going in winter when fewer people are on the trails allows you to have a meditative exploration of so many beauty spots.

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Guest Comments

Thank you so much for letting us stay. Had a wonderful time. An amazing walk to Bewdley and coffee and cake on the river. Leaving (this morning) before the heat, although seems cooler after the storms!

JB Herts - May 2026

On the few sunny days it was great to relax in the peace of the metal seating overlooking the lovely orchard and talk to the sheep, who always looked really interested, but rarely made comments. Saw some Roe (?) deer too - they were not inclined to converse though.

M&E - Gt. Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019

I hope we have the opportunity to visit the Wyre Forest from this base next time. Good luck with the continuing restoration work adjacent!

M&E - Gt Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019

Thank you to Nigel and Penny for your welcome and guide to the cottage on arrival. We found the accommodation very comfortable and the kitchen very well equipped to self-cater (not many home deliveries here!) (Ed. You might be surprised how many there are actually!)

- Jun 2019

Manor Holding is such a peaceful place. A real pleasure to return to after visiting one of the many, many interesting historical sites in this area, many of which are in the very informative information folders in the hall. Thank you for these!

M&E - Gt Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019

We have enjoyed a wonderful week in this idyllic setting. Our two young daughters loved playing hide-and-seek in the house and gardens, and visiting their ‘neighbours’ (the sheep and lambs). Despite being late May there were a few chilly days and the wood burner kept us toasty. There is wildlife aplenty in the garden and nearby forest; we saw some fantastic birds and wood ants! There is a plethora of things to do in the area: we loved the varied cycle routes, picturesque and interesting NT properties and sampling the food in the local pubs (The Hop Pole Inn in Bewdley is particularly welcoming and good). Thanks for hosting us in this lonely cottage!

L, E, R(7) and C(2) - Jun 2019

Magical setting, comfortable bed, cosy cottage! Many thanks.

V+KW, NZ - Apr 2019

Revisiting after many years – lovely to see the cottage just as beautiful + cosy. Woodland walks amazing with Autumn colours. Many Thanks.

The Ts - Oct 2018

We had a great few days here in October, the cottage was very clean extremely well stocked with cutlery and cooking equipment. The beds were large and comfortable and this is a great location to explore the local area while being peaceful and remote enough to enjoy the calmness and serenity of the surrounding grounds and forest.

PS - Oct 2018

In the middle of Wyre Forest, a beautiful old cottage, with modern comforts, breathing history and nature. Yes, we have had a wonderful week. Splendid walks, the children enjoyed climbing trees, picking blackberries and so on, and so on. Thank you for this wonderful week.

GJS, EA, FS, HS - Leeuwarden, The Netherlands - Aug 2018

Our 4^th visit and the kids are already planning what they’d like us to do next year. The safari / theme park is always a highlight but this year they’ve really enjoyed visiting the farm next door (turn left at the end of the lane) & helping D feed the animals + collect eggs (11am is a good time to go). We all love our walks in the woods + are pleased the rope swing is still there – go into the woods near the end of the lane + keep following the path down – go over 2 cross paths until the path bends to the left, then take a smaller path on the right. You may need wellies to cross the stream to get to the swing as the bridge is still broken – we did build stepping stones across. Once again we’ve enjoyed collecting apples + brambles for crumble – it always tastes better here! Many thanks for upgrading the washing machine. We’ve enjoyed playing table tennis in the sunshine – we’ve left extra balls we brought just in case… only one went into a tree this time! We hope future guests enjoy this place as much as we do. We’ll definitely be back!

R, A, P, + J – Newcastle - Aug 2018

Very nice and beautiful place with a big garden with different terraces and levels in the middle of an overwelming nature. From the house you can walk in to a beautiful forest with a fantastic wildlife. For us it means peace and quite after a hectic citylife in the west part of the Netherlands. The house is more lovelier and bigger then you see at the photo's of Airbnb. It's nice and cosy.

R&MK + family - Jul 2018

"Thanks for the lovely stay at your beautiful house! We enjoyed it so much!

Warm regards, R, M, Z & NK and C" - Jul 2018

We loved your place. In the middle of nature and so very quiet. My son loved your compass and map and was a real direction guide to us. Everything was very nice and all things we needed were present in the house. Thank you and maybe till another holiday!

R, M, J & N (and our dog C) - Jul 2018

It was a very cool time. It was our first holiday in England and I say it was very good. We was at Hartlebury Castle and on the Severn Valley Railway. We do a lots of other things in the near. We was in Bewdley and Stourport-on-Severn. The neighbours on the farm are very nice to us and the eggs are very tasty.

Family RM - Jul 2018

Quiet location, only a few animals from which you always hear something, such as sheep, chickens, dogs, turkeys. (Translated from German)

SKM & family - Jul 2018

9 Days at the beginning of July: Our aim was to spend two weekends at the 1940’s on the Severn Valley Railway with friends. And enjoy the week by ourselves, away from "it all". We have had a tremendous time. All of us enjoying discovering your cottage. Beatifully positioned, amidst a garden full of fruits and flowers. Thanks you for fresh cherries, gooseberries, & blackcurants. We have taken a little, and left you plenty more. During an exceedingly hot period, we loved the cool of the cottage. I’m sure it is just as welcoming in other seasons as well. We have visited ruined castles & stately homes (even saw "The Tempest" at Witley Court) and of course, more trips on the Severn Valley Railway. It has been a privilege to stay. Thank you.

F&DM - Jul 2018

Manor Holdings is a truly lovely cottage, finished to an exceptionally high standard in polished hardwood everywhere. The building is hundreds of years old, yet has all modern comforts. The garden is secluded, and very natural, with a lot of fruit and berries growing. It is so peaceful and quiet, and well off the beaten track. We really loved our time there. Your cottage is really beautiful, and absolutely spot-on. Thank you.

D&FM - Jul 2018

My sister M and I have had a wonderful week in your cottage. The setting is idyllic and we have enjoyed some excellent forest walks, even when the weather has not always been at its best! Enjoyed our trip to Arley Arboretum and a day trip to Bridgnorth on the Severn Valley Railway. It’s worth noting though that you cannot park at Arley station, so we went from Bewdley. Excellent bird watching; pleased to see a Dipper on Dowles Brook and the many garden birds. The Blackbird nesting in the eaves of the cottage roof and the Spotted Flycatcher under the eaves of the new conversion are both very nervous of us using the patio seating area. Suspect both are sitting on eggs. The top (Moon) lawn made an excellent setting for croquet and mini bowls and we love the cottage garden; so many bees, 2 toads, butterflies (including a Brimstone), moths and the bats in the evening. The cottage had everything we needed so thanks very much.

R&MO (Kent) - Jun 2018

Thank you Nigel & Penny for your wonderful hospitality during our 1 month stay. We all loved your cottage very much and it was a perfect place for us to relax after our return from overseas after 7 years! Your cottage garden is delightful & we loved spending time in the garden with family & friends that visited & the bbqs. Your cottage is in an idyllic location! The peace & quiet & fantastic walks on our doorstep we loved exploring. The cottage is very well equipped and had everything we needed & we will highly recommend to anyone wanting to visit the area! All the very best & thanks again.

T, M, F, K - May 2018

A beautiful cottage in very tranquil, peaceful surroundings with a gorgeous cottage country garden. The cottage is really well equipped and Nigel and Penny are great hosts. There are many great walks through the forest and along the brook which are fantastic! Even though it is very rural you are not far from towns nearby with all the amenities you could need. Thanks so much to you both for your hospitality and everything we had a wonderful time and loved your cottage.

TP&M - May 2018

Despite being our wettest holiday for 30 years we loved the cottage; warm deep baths, well equipped kitchen, each room a delight to be in. Just sorry we could not enjoy the garden more. Both Cleobury & Bewdley good ports of call for bread, local beer & other essentials. Loved "bumping into" the Severn Valley trains on our river walks. Very dramatic with the swollen waters & speeding currents.

C&PC - Apr 2018

Wonderfully comfortable cottage. Beautiful countryside, hope to visit again.

S, D, J +A - Apr 2018

Thank you for a wonderful stay here in this lovely cottage. It was an escape for us from our busy lives and we feel rested and replenished after just two days away.

J & C, Oxford - Feb 2018

Very relaxing weekend, weather lovely. Cottage very cosy and with everything we needed. Thank you very much.

B, A M & B - Feb 2018

Lovely cottage in a lovely spot – not too deterred by frequent heavy snow showers – Thank you!

H + P / Cambridge - Feb 2018

A fabulous, relaxing home from home experience. Beautiful walks from the door, very relaxing. Highly recommended. Thank you both for a real home from home experience. A relaxing weekend with a super comfy bed - just what we needed. We especially appreciated the little extras that made it special - feather duvet, fresh garden flowers and maps!

HE&J - Feb 2018

So enjoyed our stay in this lovely and generously equipped cottage. Idyllically located. Just sorry we didn’t have more time to walk in the surrounding woods. Nigel made us feel very welcome.

HS - Feb 2018

We had a lovely stay at Nigel and Penny’s place in the country. The cottage was very cosy (particularly the wood burner) and it was perfectly placed to explore the local area. Thank you - we had a lovely stay!

RE - Feb 2018

This is a beautiful restored house with lots of modern amenities like well equipped kitchen for cooking at home, beautiful and cosy log burner in the lounge/dining area, and comfy bedding with luxury feather duvets and pillows. The underfloor heating is subtle and makes the tiles and floorboards comfy. We walked into the woods from the house, and walked through the woods to the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre for lunch which was a great 7mile walk. Very quiet area, very peaceful, lovely thick curtains for a lie in, and enough distance between the house and neighbours to be able to listen to music at a reasonable level in the evenings. We asked for some more toilet roll and a non-feather pillow for our friend who was allergic, and our hosts were very helpful and went out of their way to be accommodating. Thanks!

AW - Jan 2018

what wonderful wildlife, just this morning we watched a spotted woodpecker in the woodpile, and what beautiful orchards. Its so good to see the old varieties of apples, it’s a shame there are not many left in this country anymore. It is so peaceful here, just the sound of the birds and animals to wake you up in the morning, and no light pollution, Thank you.

K and K

Only downside has been the rain, rain, rain!!! But didn’t dampen our spirits or the enjoyment of our visit!

J+J

Thank you for an excellent weekend, super relaxing, great house, well equipped and a dog walker's paradise. PS We were lucky enough to spot deer on every walk!

J, A, D and H (The Dogs!)

Great tree house – my nephew got to level three. So many walks – didn’t do nearly enough. So many pubs – only got as far as Button Oak Inn – well cooked generous servings, Bands and Stowford Cider

L and K; A and H

We have really enjoyed our stay in the cottage and have loved the setting its in, including the local wildlife (badgers in the garden, deer in the orchards and forest, woodpecker and red fox etc)

R, A, C and F

What a privalege to have stayed in a beautifully restored Grade II Listed cottage. We're full of admiration in the amount of work that's gone into the place to achieve the level of accommodation on offer. We enjoyed a lovely meal at the Eagle and Serpent in Kinlet, the staff being welcoming and hospitable. Only downside has been the rain, rain, rain!!! but didn't dampen our spirits or the enjoyment of our visit!

J+J

Loved the setting its in, including the local wildlife (badgers in the garden, deer in the orchards and forest, woodpecker and red fox etc) We have all relaxed and the two children have loved the outdoors

R, A, C and F

Thank you for allowing us to bring our 5 dogs to this wonderful cottage. The cottage is well equipped and very comfortable. It is the sort of place we would love to own. Good Luck in the future.

S & B, T, G, R, L & G.

We enjoyed desserts of blackberries, apples and plums.

A & L

The renovation is so sensitive but the cottage still feels like a home – not a show-house. We made good use of the wood burning stove and really appreciated all the little touches – such as leaving flowers + milk.

N, J + M the dog

This has been a truly unforgettable and memorable experience. the silence is deafening and makes you imagine that you are really a long way back in time. The cottage is a work of art. The skill and attention to detail is wonderful. Truly rural England lives on here in this peaceful little haven. Everything I hoped for in a relaxing break. The visiting kitten (feral) was a bonus. Many thanks.

Lilian + Ted from York

We had the most wonderful short break here. It is a stunning cottage in a brilliant location. The renovation is so sensitive, but the cottage still feels like a home - not a show-house. We have made good use of the wood burning stove and realy appreciated all the little touches - such as leaving us flowers and milk.

N, J + M dog

Flora the Fiesta didn’t like Lumpy Lane, nor the potholes filled with Shropshire rain. At the end of the track was a different story, Manor Cottage in all of its glory, Surrounded by fields and a pretty garden and an old apple orchard, utterly charming. Good luck to the owners, and congratulations For what you’ve achieved with the restoration!

S, B & our dog R.

On the way to the main road we counted about 13 pheasants most days... were they the same ones?

S, A, A, S + R (Lab) from Sutton Coldfield - B

The cottage is a work of art. The skill and attention to detail is wonderful. Truly rural England lives on here in this peaceful little haven

L & T, York

If you want fishing (coarse) try Wellfield Pools Also Hayes Farm(&) ShatterfordVery big Carp, Catfish, Sturgeon in here (up to 50lbs)

Unknown

Just wish the fruits were in season! The gooseberries and some strawberries found their way into our stomaches! (Sic)

M&N+ Bs

As two old locals returning from the smoke we really felt miles from anywhere.

S and N

We had some wonderful walking days in the forest which our dog loved even more than us. The main problem we found was the entourage of baby pheasants showing us the way home everytime we ventured out in the car.

K and L, and L

We have had the most marvellous sojourn. You've provided everything we could possibly need for a magical week, even down to fresh flowers, an ice-cream scoop - and a visiting kitten! Thanks so much.

S, D, K& P-dog

We enjoyed desserts of blackberries, apples and plums.

A&L

The definition of tranquility; even with two children under 4! Love the cottage, the area and everything about it. Would love to come back.

K, A, N and J from Hull

Bewdley is a lovely little town with everything. We are a family with a sweet tooth, so also appreciated the sweet shop. Two of us had a great meal at the Royal Forester a restaurant pub so a bet more expensive but worth it. You would probably need to book a table or go early. Ludlow is beautiful. Stourport is undergoing regeneration and should be great in a few years time. Enjoyed a ride on the Severn Valley Railway. Forest walks are wonderful, if a bit scary at dusk!

Dand Awith R the dog

Sophie (11yrs) was thrilled to see a stag in the woods, it made her holiday.

K, F, Lucy & Sophie

Beautiful cottage, an obvious labour of love. We had a great week despite the couple of days rain. Thank you for your hospitality.

H & R

Two brilliant meals at the Fighting Cocks in Stottesdon and the Plough in Far Forest on the way home last night. Lovely walk through forest to Buttonoak, saw field full of cowslips.

P, R, C and R

I love the quirky nature of the cottage and what wonderful wildlife, just this morning we watched a spotted woodpecker in the woodpile, and what beautiful orchards. Its so good to see the old varieties of apples, its a shame there are not many left in this country anymore.

K&K

Saw plenty of wildlife along sleepy hollow to the left

C, F, Oand Z

We love the area, especially for biking. The weather was glorious nearly all week which enabled us to try lots of bike routes.

D, D, W, H

It was a pleasure to stay at the Byre this week, it was very peaceful and well equipped, so thank you. ... Once again thank you and I hope to return as soon as I am able.

S+M

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Cottage and amenities were also greatly appreciated! Thanks!

The Bs, MR, NR.

Shame to have to leave it behind and head back to the rat-race.

J, S, J + N

What a haven of peace and quiet!...We thought the garden was magic and enjoyed desserts of blackberries, apples and plums.

A & L

Altogether a wonderful stay. We hope to be back soon.

N, J + M the dog

We enjoyed our week in the cottage which has a unique charm.

C, F, O and Z

Never seen such a well organised drawer with information

V family (Holland)

We had a wonderful short break here. It is a stunning cottage in a brilliant location.

N, J + M the dog.

What a lovely cottage in a very peaceful spot - we'd love to return in better weather! The wood burner made us feel very cosy though. Apologies - we've broken one of the tall glasses.

A, B, W & S from Bristol

Thoroughly enjoyed our stay, lovely cottage, thoughtfully provided, good to know it has been rescued and restored sympathetically. Wildlife in garden a great bonus. We hope to be back.

T and E

we soon settled in and came to love the antique charm of the place. Thank you.

G and A.

We enjoyed our stay here. The quirky cottage is lovely, the kitchen is well equipped

D, D, W, H

We've had another lovely stay. Thank you for having us.

N, S, & family again

Best shops were in Ludlow, Bridgnorth + Bewdley - and we even had lunch underwater" thanks to the amazing flood barrier in Bewdley.

S, A, A, S + R(Lab) from Sutton Coldfield = E

Wish we were staying longer! We have had a great stay. Cottage is so well equipped, comfy, homely, and has so much character.

S & B, from Liverpool

We've loved our stay here and will definately be back! Wish we were here for longer!

H+J - London

We and the dogs have enjoyed playing in the charming garden. Thank you,

E, R, T + J, Stockport. + P+M

Thank you for letting us use your amazing cottage it’s brilliant. We all love it! We are terribly sorry but my Daddy dropped a plate and broke it so SORRY. xxxx. (Drawing of house with tree and smiling birds)

Love from G, G, A+ R

This is the best equipped cottage for kitchen gear we have ever stayed in, even beating the Landmark Trust. Though it would be nice if the cooker and sink were in the same room! (We have now moved the cooker as requested, and added a log burning stove in the sitting room inglenook. Ed)

H & A, Littlehampton.

Cottage beautifully restored and very comfortable set off by the cottage garden. Many thanks for allowing us to share your little cottage.

K& A & W. Bishops Offley, Staffs

We love this cottage. As two old locals returning from the smoke we really felt miles from anywhere.

S, N, R, Fand T 2.

Thanks for another lovely Christmas at Manor Holding. We were very cozy with the wood burning stove and cooked a great xmas dinner in the new oven (for 11 people! Ed.) All hoping to return before too long.

S, N, R, F + T

Thank you for a wonderful stay! You were SO accommodating to us. We enjoyed our stay in this pretty, peaceful place so much + we hope to be back one day!

Jessica, Michaela (4), & Alyssa (1) (Canada)

We have had a very good week, both weather –wise and in our enjoyment of this lovely cottage and surrounding area. the book about Kinlet in the upstairs library is fascinating.

Hamish Dobson-Smyth

What an impressive labout of love this cottage & buildings are.

J & G, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

A lovely setting for a lovely cottage. Excellent array of books and information to help plan many varied days out. We even had snow! And a real cold snap, but this didn’t dampen spirits.

P & S, Bakewell.

Thank you for letting us stay in your cottage. It was a very pleasant stay. We loved the cosiness of this cottage. Maybe will return in the future, if that is okay? We also will recommend this cottage to our family and friends. Thanks,

M, S, R, L and D, Weert, The Netherlands

Visited Ludlow, Bridgnorth, Bewdley, Stourport + took a return trip to Kidderminster on the Severn Valley Railway.

S, A, A, S + R (Lab) from Sutton Coldfield - C

We moved in and felt very much at home, lovely property and enjoyed our forest walks, hope to come back.

N and H.

We have loved our stay here and will be back in January 2015. A beautiful cottage, so peaceful and homely. Loved the kitchen with everything I needed. Thank you for your hospitality and kindness.

T&K

We enjoyed our stay here and were comfortable in the cottage. We would like to know more of the history of the restoration of the property Excellent selection of books.

G and M

Thanks for a very peaceful, relaxing holiday. The cottage is immediately homely with a feelgood factor. We are so relieved that our first holiday in 4 1/2 years turned out to be in a place we would want to return to!

T and D(and G of course!)

Thanks for a relaxing break away from it all! What a fantastic location, nothing but birds and sheep, bliss! The first time we've slept past 9am on a weekend! :) The bats at dusk were lovely to see too.

Hamish Dobson-Smyth

Had another lovely week here despite the weather. However we have one major complaint, we have got to go back to reality! Thanks for everything.

L & T

Very comfortable cottage in fantastic location. Beautifully planted garden.

H Family, Havant, Hampshire.

We have spent a lovely weekend in your cottage. Very Peaceful and homely - exactly what we were after! Wish we had more time to enjoy it! Definetely will recomend.

I+ T+ M+ J

We have had a fantastic time, the cottage is absolutely lovely, really comfortable The garden is fab, I love the different sections, one for me to read, one for the girls to play in. All in all we have had a lovely holiday and are sorry to be going back to reality. rested, relaxed and restored, exactly what we needed. Thank you so much for the use of your well equipped, comfortable cottage We would love to come again.

K, F, L and S

We will miss this place but take away some very happy memories. Many Thanks,

M, N, M + L

We very much enjoyed our stay in this amazing cottage and hill country! The gardens were lovely and I personally feel I could live here!

Bs, MR, NR 2.

Fantastic week. The weather was terrible but the cottage kept us nice and warm. 2 Power cuts did not cause much trouble as we just read and talked. Nigel is very helpful and it was nice to know he was around to help if needed. Thank you so much.

G and P with J woof - B

We had a lovely week at Manor Holding! Few lovely sunny days at the back garden just enjoying ourselves. Really impressed with Ludlow medieval town & Bewdley. Went to Wyre Forest visitor centre and to the very close and lovely Rays Farm. Thank you guys! Everything was great!

S, V, BR + T the dog

Wish we were staying longer! We have had a great stay. Cottage is so well equipped, comfy, homely and has so much character! We got a bit lost in the woods, as predicted, but was part of the fun of exploring them. Thank you.

S & B from Liverpool

Loved watching the wildlife and birds, was upset not to see the badgers though.

J, B, V, S and dogs E and M

The holly bushes are in bloom and beautiful. In the field ahead of the lonely building we found an apple tree with an abundance of mistletoe. It was lovely seeing the real deal. Thank you for allowing us to share this special piece of countryside

N and D

Two nights was enough to fall in love with this fabulous cottage. It was also enough to ensure we shall return to the tranquility, the wildlife and the beer from the local brewery.

P and K

A gem in a wonderful corner of England! Time flies... Au revoir,

M + L + family. Brussels.

We had such a nice time, your house is really enchanting, and in such a gorgeous location. we arrived home to pouring rain. We had much better weather with you, it had been raining all day here.- always such a bonus to cheat the weather. Thank you once again (By email)

C, J and J + N(Labrador)

Loved watching the wildlife and birds, was upset not to see the badgers though.

J, B, V, S and dogs E and M

We enjoyed the riding at Bagginswood and the great walks from the cottage door. The snowdrops everywhere were magical. We also enjoyed lunch in Cleobury Mortimer + tea in Bewdley. Gobbetts nursery is well worth a visit (if you can find it ...) Altogether a wonderful stay. We hope to be back soon.

N, J + M dog

We along with our 2 dogs have had the most wonderful time. We would like to thank Nigel and Penny for giving people the opportunity to stay in this fantastic cottage.

Mand N, M + L 5.

We had a lovely week at Manor Holding! Few sunny days at the back garden just enjoying ourselves. Really impressed with Ludlow medieval town & Bewdley. Went to the Wyre Forest visitor centre and the very close and lovely Ray's Farm. Thank you Guys! Everything was great!

S, V, BR + T the dog

From the moment we arrived it felt like home ( a home only a lottery win could provide on a permanent basis) and we are feeling very sad to leave. The facilities provided were first class and everything we needed is here.

M and N, M + L

Thanks for letting us stay in your gorgeous cottage. We had a fab holiday

J, L, N, G & G.

We have had a lovely relaxing stay in the cottage.

M + A + X

What can we say that hasn't already been said? We along with our 2 dogs have had the most wonderful time. We would like the thank Nigel and Penny for giving people the opportunity to stay in this fantastic cottage. From the moment we arrived it felt like home (a home only a lottery win could provide on a permanent basis) and we are feeling very sad to leave. The facilities provided were first class and everything we needed is here. We will miss this place but take away some very happy memories. Many Thanks.

MandN, M + L

Our last visit was January 05 – even more beautiful. What excitement we had when we woke up to see a stag under the apple tree outside the front door

N and D -A

A very restful week in spite of very wet weather. An ideal spot to relax.

P and A, Mendlesham, Suffolk.

I think we all were very impressed and would all love to return soon!

MR, NR & The Bs.

Felt privileged to have stayed in such an interesting house in a fantastic location. Nice to see a copy of the Brunskill book on timber framing. Many thanks for a memorable stay.

S and B.

We have really enjoyed our break, cottage was lovely

J, B, V, S and dogs Eand M

Fantastic week. The kitchen had everything and more than you would need. We will visit again in the summer to see the garden and woods when the mud has gone. :-)

G and P with J (woof)

Lovely secluded location well situated for touring Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the Marshes. We also had an airy walk over Titersford Clee Hill from Cleeton St Mary. Several runs through the forest and back over the fields from Buttonbridge have helped to maintain fitness! Meal out at the Plough was good value for money, although the pseudo-themed interior rather spoiled the anticipation evoked by the authentic exterior.

D, L and N the geriatric dog

Lovely old house – needs an Aga/Rayburn and a log burner to make it really cosy when it’s cold outside – our winter was just arriving as we got here. (Log burning stove now installed and oven upgraded. Ed)

J, S, J + N a

We had a really cosy + quiet week in this fabulous cottage. Evenings by the wood-burning stove were really atmospheric.

S, A, A, S + R (Lab) - A

The photos on the website do not do the cottage justice.

J&M

We have had a lovely 3 night stay at Manor holding Cottage. The tranquility and quaint charm of the place has captured our hearts and we would love to visit again.

K&N (+ T the dog)

A most enjoyable stay in the cottage We would love to know more about its history and plans for the future, but loved the oak doors and attention to detail on the handles

C and B

We were pleased to meet with Baby, the hand reared sheep who wanders down the lane like a pet dog – belongs to the neighbour.

NandD

Too short a stay! Lovely, peaceful time. Fire is hot man! :)

A + M

Enjoyed the cottage and the north trail greatly! Having such a young one (1yr old) it was very kid friendly and plenty of room in garden for her to run and discover!

The Bs, NR + MR.

Thanks for a lovely visit to Shropshire. Great surroundings. Cottage nice and well equipped.

D& P

Fantastic, charismatic cottage. A beautifully loved home. So sad to leave. We both truly enjoyed the respite and quiet tranquility of the surrounding countryside. The pheasants, robins, blackbirds and other wildlife were a joy, and of course the sheep!

S and S

Our fifth holiday here in this wonderful cottage and surroundings. Here, the intersection of the timeless moment Is England and nowhere. Never and always (TS Eliot: Little Gidding)

P and A

A lovely setting for a lovely cottage, our 2 young daughters particularly liked the 'lumpy' journey to and from every day as well as exploring the woods and lanes.

R&S, Bakewell

Thank you for a wonderful stay! You were SO accommodating to us. We enjoyed our stay in this pretty, peaceful place so much + we hope to be back one day!

J, M(4) & A(1) (Canada)

We have all loved it. It is tranquillity base. We will return.

M, S, H and V

This is a lovely cottage, warm, cosy, and quiet. We enjoyed our stay here immensely, and will remember the lovely views we woke up to every morning.

S & S, Lancaster, Lancs.

What a privelige to have stayed in a beautifully restored Grade II Listed cottage. We’re full of admiration in the amount of work that’s gone into the place to achieve the level of accommodation on offer.

J+ J

Thank you for a wonderful relaxing & peaceful stay in your cottage. The week has been magical.

J & S. Wimington Kent

Thank you for a wonderful stay, as usual we love coming for family holidays in your cottage. Everything is so beautiful out here and, as our holiday family traditions include to cook good meals from local ingredients, your well equipped kitchen is always such a pleasure! Hopefully we'll see you again. Fond regards

Family M

It is so peaceful here, just the sound of the birds and animals to wake you up in the morning, and no light pollution, Its my husbands birthday today and I could not think of a more stunning location to spend it. Thank you.

K&K

Its been great being able to access the forest so easily. Ted the dog has appreciated the walks and freedom!

J, P and T the dog.

We have had a fantastic time. You have obviously tried to make this a home from home and it has really worked. We arrived on the 1st night at 8pm and we all immediately felt cosy and relaxed. Jovi (3 1/2) went into every room and announced, ’This is nice!’ Angelique (1 ½) also had a fabulous time shrieking to her heart’s content. Well done you have thought of everything, and we definitely want to visit again very soon. (PS) We too have stayed in many a holiday cottage and we love this one.

S, L, J and A

Thanks for letting us stay in your gorgeous cottage. We had a fab holiday.

J, L, N, G & G 2.

We enjoyed our stay – mostly every day sunny. Spent a lot of time relaxing in the garden listening to the birds and sheep.

S and D+ C and T

Oh, it's sweet! How lovely! (Exclaimed on arrival)

Unknown

A lovely warm cottage in an amazing situation – couldn’t fault the facilities.

J, S, L + M.

I think that the work that has been done on the cottage shows great sensitivity to the history of the building. Thank you for allowing us to share your

super property for a little while.

We have all relaxed and the two children (4 and 2) have loved the outdoors

R, A, C and F

Thanks for a peaceful rest.

Unknown

An enjoyable visit – setting and cottage delightful

S and P

Our dog Trev has particularly appreciated the log fire and garden, although I think we've tired him out with all the walking.

K & N (+T the dog)

We were delighted by the walks in the forest and the profusion of wild plants and birds. We would like to know more of the history of the restoration of the propertyExcellent selection of books.

G and M

This is the best equipped cottage for kitchen gear we have ever stayed in, even beating the Landmark Trust. Though it would be nice if the cooker and sink were in the same room! (We have now upgraded the cooker to fan assisted dual fuel and put it in the same room as the sink. Ed)

H & A, Littlehampton

The walking in the Wyre Forest is great - especially for a walk-positive labrador :)

S, A, A, S + R (Lab) from Sutton Coldfield - D

What excitement we had when we woke up to see a stag under the apple tree outside the front door We were pleased to meet with Baby, the hand reared sheep who wanders down the lane like a pet dog – belongs to the neighbour. The holly bushes are in bloom and beautiful. In the field ahead of the lonely building we found an apple tree with an abundance of mistletoe. It was lovely seeing the real deal. Thank you for allowing us to share this special piece of countryside

N and D

We love the cottage and found it to be very comfortable and well equipped We really appreciated the well organised & comprehensive information on the cottage and surrounding area. The garden and surrounding countryside are absolutely lovely.

A, P& M

What a beautiful cottage, in idyllic surroundings. It is heaven here!

K and K

Have nothing to complain about, everything worked perfectly and was all we needed.

J, B, V, S and dogs E and M

Thank you for a lovely stay in your lovely cottage! Amazing! It was a pleasure to have a cottage that is so dog friendly. I will recommend it to friends back home! Many thanks.

E, P, B & S.